1. Controlling the Beast: Controlling Hazardous Energy via Lock-out Tag-out (LOTO) and Check
Energy is what drives the world, powers our industries and keeps us comfortable and secure. While very beneficial, energy can be like a wild beast: Harness and channel it and it is very useful, but if it is not properly controlled, it can get ‘loose’ and cause serious injury and even death.
Serious work-related injuries and fatalities have been attributed to the ‘Fatal Five’:
Failure to stop equipment;
Failure to disconnect from power source;
Failure to dissipate residual energy;
Accidental re-starting of equipment;
Failure to clear work areas before reactivation.
These can all be prevented by effective LOTO systems at work.

2. “ENERGY CONTROL PROGRAM” (LOTO) IS MANDATORY IN THE TCL GROUP
Objectives of LOTO Program:
To prevent unexpected or inadvertent energization or start-up of equipment/ machines, or release of energy, and so prevent injury to workers while servicing or working on or near the equipment /machines;
To provide a safe system of work, as required by law.

3. Elements of an Effective LOTO Program:
Provision of sturdy, durable, standardized and identifiable to a person, protective hardware e.g. locks, tags, chains, block etc.;
Every person who is required to work on the equipment has his own individual lock and key!

4. Elements of an Effective LOTO Program:
Documented Policy and step-by-step Procedures on how to control the energy, and eliminate the potential unexpected activation or start-up of the equipment, or the release of stored energy; Must include requirements re: shift change, group lockout, contractors;
Effective worker training and communication, and refreshers;
At least annual inspection and review of the LOTO Program, and revise as needed;
Revisions due to changes, new equipment, and advances in technology e.g. complex PLC linked interlocks, remote computer controls, automatic valves.
DOES YOUR SYSTEM MEET ALL THE
ABOVE REQUIREMENTS FOR
EFFECTIVE LOTO?